Original finishes

[sipi]

Just had my 1907 vintage model 8 autoloader checked out by a local gunsmith and went right out to the range to try it out. I was very pleased with guns performance.

One problem is the broken forend. It seems to be held together with tape and glue from the inside, and from the outside is a bit of an eyesore.

I'd like to replace it, and having found a source online for replacement wood. I thought I'd replace both the stock and forend.

My question is, if I wanted to keep it as authentic as possible, How did Remington finish their gunstocks?

Did they use stain, and if so what color? Did they use a varnish or an oil finish?
Would they have used filler to fill the pores of the grain on a standard grade gun?

Any information would be appreciated.

[Jay Huber]

Here is a copy of what is said in a salesman's manual from the era of your gun.

" Stock Finishing
Stock is covered with special filler of proper color, receiver remaining on the stock. The stock is allowed to dry and then is rubbed with excelsior. Stock is sprayed with varnish and dried in heating oven. Regular shotgun stocks have two coats of varnish. After second coat stock is rubbed for finish. After inspection, receiver is stripped and sent to polish, stock, going to checker."

Hope this helps. Jay Huber RSA